Meet Jessica Lee Reader

We were lucky to catch up with Jessica Lee Reader recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Jessica Lee, so excited to have you with us today and we are really interested in hearing your thoughts about how folks can develop their empathy? In our experience, most folks want to be empathic towards others, but in a world where we are often only surrounded by people who are very similar to us, it can sometimes be a challenge to develop empathy for others who might not be as similar to us. Any thoughts or advice?

My empathy comes from my own health struggles. I know what it’s like to feel completely exhausted, suffering from digestive issues, and frustrated—trying to find answers when nothing seems to help. It’s overwhelming to see so many cookie-cutter approaches to health without personalized guidance. It wasn’t until I started learning about the wide range of conditions and how each person is incredibly unique that things began to shift for me. We all have our own story, shaped by different upbringings, unique genes, lifestyles, preferences, and goals. We deserve to be treated like the special individuals we are.

My education at the Nutrition Therapy Institute taught me about biochemical individuality—not just the science of how we differ on a cellular level, but the importance of truly hearing and supporting each client. Over the years, working with people who’ve faced similar challenges has deepened that understanding. Every story is unique, and it’s a constant reminder that healing isn’t just about food or supplements—it’s about connection, understanding, and meeting people where they are.

Guiding yoga and mindfulness has also played a huge role in honing my empathy. I’ve cried on my mat, listened to my own heartbeat, and felt an undeniable connection to the community around me. In those moments, I’m reminded that we are all deeply connected. We are one.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I’m a Holistic Gut Health Nutritionist, Master Nutrition Therapist, Health Coach, and Yoga Teacher with 15 years of experience. I founded Vitalized Body to help people struggling with digestive issues, low energy, and stress find lasting relief through personalized nutrition, mindfulness, and yoga.

What excites me most about my work is witnessing the transformations that happen when people begin to reconnect with their bodies. It’s when they realize that healing isn’t just about what they eat, but also about how they nurture their mind and spirit.

What sets my approach apart is the integration of science-based nutrition with mindfulness and yoga. I don’t believe in cookie-cutter solutions. Instead, I take a deeply personalized approach to uncover the root causes of digestive issues, fatigue, and stress, and then create a holistic plan to support lasting health and wellness.

My signature program is the 3-month Gut Health Reset Program, available both in-person in Greenville, SC, and online. I also host yoga events, retreats, and corporate wellness programs. Everything I do is rooted in the belief that true wellness comes from nurturing the whole self—body, mind, and soul

I’m also excited to be writing a book on the intricate connection between the gut and the brain. This is a topic I’m deeply passionate about, as it ties directly into my gut health and yoga practices. The gut-brain axis is incredibly powerful—it influences not only digestion, but also mood, mental clarity, and overall well-being. This book will blend the latest scientific research with practical tools to support both gut health and emotional balance.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back, the three skills that have been most impactful in my journey are learning, adapting, and creativity.

First, learning has been essential—especially in the fields of nutrition and wellness, which are always evolving. Whether it’s staying up-to-date with new research, exploring different methodologies, or gaining a deeper understanding of the gut-brain connection, the pursuit of knowledge has allowed me to better serve my clients. I believe in always being a student, which helps me offer the most current and effective tools to those I work with.

Second, adapting has been key to navigating both personal and professional challenges. There are so many variables in health, and what works for one person may not work for another. The ability to adapt my approach to each client, as well as to the changing needs of my business, has been crucial in building a sustainable practice. It’s also helped me stay resilient during difficult times and navigate unexpected shifts.

Finally, creativity has been the thread that ties it all together. Whether it’s in finding new ways to explain complex health concepts, creating unique meal plans, or coming up with fresh ways to engage clients, creativity keeps my work exciting and meaningful. It helps me connect with people in a way that feels authentic and innovative.

For those just starting their journey, my advice would be to lean into these skills. Focus on learning—constantly seek new knowledge, whether it’s through formal education, books, or conversations with others. Don’t be afraid to adapt your approach to meet the unique needs of those you serve. And finally, use your creativity to find new solutions, whether in how you approach problems or how you engage with your community.

Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?

My ideal client is someone who is ready to take a holistic approach to their health, especially those struggling with digestive issues, fatigue, and stress. They’re often frustrated because they’ve tried various solutions but haven’t found lasting relief. They may feel overwhelmed by one-size-fits-all advice and are seeking a personalized, sustainable plan that addresses the root causes of their symptoms.

What makes someone an ideal fit for my approach is a willingness to be open and patient with themselves as they embark on the healing journey. They need to be ready to explore not only their diet and lifestyle but also their mindset and emotional well-being. I believe that true healing requires attention to the mind-body connection, and my clients who are open to mindfulness practices and yoga alongside nutrition often experience deeper shifts in their health.

My ideal client is someone who is committed to their wellness, ready to explore their unique needs, and open to integrating holistic practices into their lifestyle. They understand that healing takes time and are willing to be part of the process to reclaim their vitality and well-being.

Contact Info:

Suggest a Story: BoldJourney is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems,
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Productivity
What do you do for self-care and what impact has it had on your effectiveness?

We asked some of the most productive entrepreneurs and creatives out there to open up

Resilience
Where do you get your resilience from?

Resilience is often the x-factor that differentiates between mild and wild success. The stories of

Productivity
How do you keep your creativity alive?

Keeping your creativity alive has always been a challenge, but in the era of work